UBT Basics

Unit-based teams (UBTs) were launched in 2005 when they were included in that year’s National Agreement. The people who negotiated the agreement envisioned UBTs as a way to improve care by tapping into the knowledge and experience of frontline staff, managers and physicians. Each National Agreement since has reaffirmed UBTs as a platform for improvement. These teams are transforming Kaiser Permanente by changing the roles of union members and managers and creating an environment in which all employees are encouraged to think critically about problem solving and work innovations.

A UBT is only as successful as your willingness to participate. It can’t just be about management—it takes us all coming together.